What three decades of archaeological excavations in Paphos in Cyprus can tell us about ancient performance: A talk by Dr Craig Barker
Under the auspices of the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus, the University of Sydney has been excavating and researching the site of the ancient theatre of Nea Paphos since 1995. Those excavations have revealed a theatre constructed out of the bedrock of a hill, later called Fabrika, which was used for more than six and a half centuries as a venue for performance and spectacles. At its greatest extent, under the Antonine emperors, it seated an audience of more than 8000.
The theatre of Paphos was constructed in c. 300 BCE; at a pivotal point in the development of theatre architecture from Greek models using natural sloping hills to what will eventually become Roman theatres constructed without the needs of topography. It also represents the spread of Greek theatrical traditions into the eastern Mediterranean in the wake of Alexander the Great's conquests and the spread of theatrical performance as part of the broader cultural koine of the Hellenistic era.
During its long lifespan, surviving a series of earthquakes, the theatre was reconstructed numerous times. Each successive phase of the theatre was completed in contemporary architectural design which enables us to understand the development of a theatre over a significant period of time.
This talk will look at recent research in ancient theatre studies, particularly in terms of architecture, performance and reception by ancient audiences and it will examine the ongoing role of Australian researchers in understanding ancient theatre. Can we use the work at Paphos as a case study in better understanding the role of theatre in the Classical city?
This lecture is supported by the Faculty of Arts’ Ancient World Seminar Series. It is part of a series of theatre-themed programs in celebration of National Archaeology Week 2026, co-presented by The University of Melbourne, Hellenic Museum and CO.AS.IT. Museo Italiano. Visit the program hub to explore other events.
When: 6:30-8pm, Saturday 23 May 2026
Where: Forum Theatre (Room 151), Level 1, Arts West Building (Building 148), University of Melbourne, Parkville Vic 3052
Cost: Free (registration essential)